The bookstore isn’t the only place on campus to buy things on-line. Beginning December 20, the tech products store will become completely virtual, eliminating its location in the basement of the service building.
The site, www.bc.edu/computerstoreonline, will allow students, faculty and staff to purchase anything from a mouse pad to virus protection software to computers and printers.
According to David McIntyre, Information Technology Communications Consultant, “The most important benefits of moving the computer store on-line are the convenience of on-line ordering 24 hours a day, seven days a week and the availability of an expanded product line.”
With the move on-line, the Store will offer free delivery for orders over $50. This includes dorm rooms and any address within the continental United States.
“Having computer products delivered to your room is a good idea because it eliminates trying to carry a big bulky piece of equipment across campus, especially if you live on Newton,” said Ed Carlton, A&S ’04.
Since most student purchases are below $50, however, the Bookstore has begun to sell some computer products such as printer cartridges, cables and the EagleNet Resource software.
One of the disadvantages of the new system, however, is that students will not be able to drop by the Tech Store to purchase something if they are in a bind.
Instead, purchases will require extra planning and immediate delivery will cost extra.
According to Sandy Kyong, A&S ’04, who has had problems obtaining Internet access, “They’ve taken away the advantage of easy accessibility trying to become technologically advanced. My ethernet card is broken and I can’t get on-line to order a new one.”
The introduction of the virtual Tech Products store is the result of a partnership with a local computer reseller, Sayers, the company that facilitated this year’s back-to-school computer purchases. Sayers is a computer system integrator founded by Gale Sayers, the NFL Hall of Fame running back from the Chicago Bears. Sayers has been in the computer industry for 17 years.
While purchases must be made on-line, Sayers representatives will help consumers Mondays and Thursdays in the Service Building, in addition to adding to the consultants available at the Student Learning and Support Center (SLSC).
Although Sayers will supply and deliver the equipment, BC will still manage pricing, policies and specifications.
The only major changes will affect faculty; purchases by payroll deduction will be discontinued because Sayers does not have access to BC’s payroll system.
Departments, however, may still make purchases through U-Buy and pick up their purchases in the Service Building.
“In particular, students will notice the ease of ordering and shipping through the new on-line store,” McIntyre said. “Members of the community now will have more choices for hardware, software and peripherals with easier access.”
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